Method of disinfecting and inhibiting mold and mildew growth on non-porous hard surfaces

ABSTRACT

A method of cleaning, disinfecting, and inhibiting mold and mildew growth on a non-porous hard surface is disclosed. The method utilizes a composition comprising an aliphatic alcohol, at least one organic ether, and optionally a secondary alcohol and is essentially free of conventional antibacterial agents including chlorine bleaches, quaternary ammonium compounds and phenolic compounds.

PRIORITY

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/056,279, filed Sep. 3, 1997.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to aqueous cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting andmold and mildew inhibiting compositions for non-porous hard surfacessuch as glass (e.g., mirrors and shower doors), glazed porcelain,metallic (e.g., chrome, stainless steel, and aluminum), ceramic tile,enamel, fiberglass, Formica®, Corian® and plastic. The compositionsutilize surprisingly low concentrations of particular alcohols as wellas advantageously leave very low levels of residue on the surface.

BACKGROUND ART

Complete elimination of pathogenic micro-organisms on various surfaces,especially hard surfaces where such organisms may stay active forrelatively long periods of time, has long been a goal of those chargedwith cleaning and maintaining in an antiseptic fashion kitchens andbathrooms in the home, as well as in commercial and institutionalsettings such as hospitals, medical clinics, hotels and restaurants. Afurther goal has been to prevent the formation of allergens caused bythe growth of mold and mildew on bathroom surfaces.

A variety of chemical disinfecting agents have been developed toaccomplish these goals. However, some of these agents have disadvantagesin that some are corrosive, unpleasant to smell or capable of stainingcertain surfaces that commonly need to be cleaned and disinfected.Additionally, if the agents are volatile organic compounds, thecompositions are environmentally disadvantageous when utilized at higherconcentrations. Furthermore, some disinfecting agents contain componentswhich leave residual solids on surfaces such as glass, polished tile, ormetals which detract from the visual appearance of these surfaces.

Chlorine bleaches such as aqueous sodium hypochlorite have long beenrecognized as being effective against all types of micro-organisms,provided that the bleach is used in sufficiently high concentrations,such as 5,000 ppm (0.5%) of active sodium hypochlorite and higher,depending on the micro-organism to be eliminated. These types ofsolutions are recommended for use for disinfecting an area where bloodor other potentially pathogenic biological contaminants have beenspilled or released and total disinfection is required. At such highlevels of sodium hypochlorite, the sensory irritation from the chlorinesmell from the bleach simply makes this agent undesirable for routinecleaning and disinfection of, for example, hospital rooms, wherepatients remain in the room during and after the cleaning anddisinfection process.

Disadvantageously, hypochlorites may also stain or degrade some surfacessuch as Formica®. Additionally, bleaches demonstrate high reactivitywith other cleaning agents. For example, bleach when combined withammonia produces harmful chloramine gas. Also, bleach when combined withan acid based cleaner produces chlorine gas, which is potentiallyhazardous.

Consumers are also highly sensitive to streaking and hazing which maydevelop on windows, shower doors and mirrors, and the like. A desirablecleaner should produce a surface which exhibits little or no change inclarity and optical properties from the moment of use and ideally remainthat way for weeks and months. In the context of the present invention,streaking can be defined as a visible diffractive layer which causeslight scattering. Hazing can be described as a misty diffractive layerthat covers the entire surface developing instantly or over time, whichclouds the surface. Most cleaning products leave behind a thin residualfilm of product in intimate contact with the surface. Hydrogen bondingto the surface oxides and/or hydroxides with continuous attachmentproduces an optically clear film. Small breaks or disruptions in thesecontinuous residual films cause diffractive streaks which are visible tothe naked eye. Similarly, residual diffractive particles will also bevisible to the naked eye. Specific formulation techniques are requiredto maintain the integrity of a homogeneous residual film and toeliminate residual diffractive particles on the cleaned surface.

Chemical and optical stability of the residual surface film may beachieved by maintaining a proper balance of surfactants and couplingagents in the formula. More typically, however, the formulator willprepare a cleaning composition to ensure stability of the compositionand the delivery of good disinfecting properties without considering theresidual film properties and optical effects. For example, Quaternaryammonium compounds have long been recognized as being useful for theirantibacterial properties, as can be seen from U.S. Pat. No. 3,836,669 toDadekian; U.S. Pat. No. 4,320,147 to Schaeufele; U.S. Pat. No. 4,336,151to Like et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,444,790 to Green et al.; U.S. Pat. No.4,464,398 to Sheets et al.; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,540,505 to Frazier.However, quaternary ammonium compounds have a tendency to contribute tovisible streaking on glass and other surfaces.

An additional disadvantage of quaternary ammonium based compositions isthat the addition of common highly efficacious cleaning surfactants suchas anionic surfactants is not possible due to incompatibility.Accordingly, more costly surfactants must be employed in quaternaryammonium formulations.

Further, quaternary ammonium compounds are known eye and skin irritants,thus special care must be taken by the user of compositions employingthese compounds.

To minimize expense, undesirable odors and possible detrimental effectsof disinfecting agents on surfaces to be disinfected, it is desirable tominimize the amount of disinfecting or mold and mildew inhibiting agentsused while still retaining efficacy. As will be explained in greaterdetail below, it has been found that a combination of specific alcohols,and glycol ethers at a pH in the range of from about 4.0 to about 13.0provides a composition that is effective as a cleaner, disinfectant anda mold and mildew prevention agent on non-porous hard surfaces.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

One object of this invention is to provide compositions that can be usedin a method of cleaning and disinfecting various surfaces. Anotherobject of this invention is to provide such compositions that inhibitmold and mildew growth on surfaces.

A particularly advantageous object of this invention is to providecompositions that can be used in household, commercial and institutionalsettings for cleaning and disinfection purposes that are more tolerableto people remaining in the area disinfected because the smell of thecompositions is more appealing to the user than if highly concentratedhypochlorite bleach compositions were used as the active disinfectant.Yet another object is to provide cleaning, disinfecting and mold andmildew inhibiting compositions that do not have high concentrations ofcertain compounds which are prone to corrode or stain surfaces to betreated.

Further, it is an object of this invention to provide disinfectancy andmold and mildew inhibition on surfaces at reduced levels ofenvironmentally disadvantageous volatile organic compounds.

Another object of the invention is to provide a method of using thecomposition as a rinsing aid to maintain a clean and disinfected showerand prevent the build-up of undesirable deposits on shower surfaces.

Additionally, it is an object of the present invention to reduce thepotential of disinfecting compositions to cause visible streaks on glassand polished surfaces when compared to disinfectants containingquaternary ammonium compounds.

These and other objects of the present invention are provided byapplying to a non-porous hard surface, an effective amount of an aqueouscleaning composition comprising an aliphatic alcohol, a glycol ether orethers, and optionally, a secondary alcohol selected from the groupconsisting of monohydric alcohols, dihydric alcohols, trihydric alcoholsand polyhydric alcohols, at a pH in the range of from about 4.0 to about13.0. The composition may also contain other conventional materialsincluding, but certainly not limited to; surfactants, chelating agents,pH modifiers, hydrotropes, fragrances, dyes, etc. Surprisingly, thesecompositions provide cleaning, disinfectancy and mold and mildewinhibiting properties at significantly reduced levels of volatileorganic compounds without the need for chlorine bleaches, quaternaryammonium or phenolic compounds.

The first component of the present invention is an aliphatic alcohol.Exemplary aliphatic alcohols include isopropanol, propanol, butanol andethanol. The preferred aliphatic alcohol is isopropanol, due to itsevaporation and low odor characteristics. Methyl alcohol, however, isless favored due to its toxicity.

Typically the aliphatic alcohol is utilized in an amount of up to about10%; preferably from about 1.0% to about 10.0%; and most preferably fromabout 3.5% to about 10.0% by weight of the composition (hereinafter, allamounts are given in weight percent, unless specified otherwise).

A further component of the present invention is an organic ether. Theorganic ethers according to the present invention are represented by thefollowing Formula (I):

R₁—O—R₂  (I)

wherein R₁ is a C₁-C₈ linear, branched, or cyclic alkyl or alkenyloptionally substituted with —OH, —OCH₃, or —OCH₂CH₃, and R₂ is a C₁-C₆linear, branched or cyclic alkyl or alkenyl substituted with —OH.

Preferably, R₁ is an optionally substituted C₃-C₆ alkyl or alkenyl, andR₂ is a monosubstituted C₂-C₄ linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl.

More preferably, R₁ is an unsubstituted or monosubstituted linear orbranched C₃-C₆ alkyl, and R₂ is a monosubstituted C₂-C₄ linear orbranched alkyl.

Most preferably, R₁ is an unsubstituted n-C₃-C₄ or n-C₆ linear alkyl or

The preferred organic ethers are the glycol ethers. Suitable glycolethers include ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether, (available as HexylCellosolve®, from Union Carbide Corporation), ethylene glycol mono-butylether (available as Butyl Cellosolve®, from Union Carbide Corporation,or as Dowanol® EB, from Dow Chemical Co.), dipropylene glycol methylether (available as Dowanol® DPM, from Dow Chemical Co.), propyleneglycol n-butyl ether (sold as Dowanol® PnB), propylene glycoltertiary-butyl ether (available as Arcosolv® PTB from Arco Chemicals),and propylene glycol n-propyl ether (available as Dowanol® PnP from DowChemical Co.). Other useful glycol ethers include other P-series glycolethers such as propylene glycol methyl ether (sold as Dowanol® PM),dipropylene glycol n-Butyl Ether (sold as Dowanol® DPnB), anddipropylene glycol n-Propyl Ether (sold as Dowanol® DPnP) and mixturesthereof.

In the present invention, the glycol ether(s) are generally present inthe range from about 0.01 to about 10.0 total weight percent.Preferably, the glycol ether component is employed in the range fromabout 0.5% to about 10.0%; and most preferably, from about 0.9% to about8.0% by weight of the composition, depending upon the specific glycolether.

Ideally the glycol ether component is a mixture of ethers, each presentin a range of from about 0.01% to about 10%. Preferably the compositioncomprises 1.2% or less by weight of ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether andfrom about 0.01% to about 10.0%, more preferably from about 0.01% toabout 3.0% by weight of ethylene glycol n-butyl ether. With respect tothe Hexyl, it has been found beneficial to use this component at or nearits solubility limit of 1.0% in an aqueous solution.

It has been found that certain alcohols couple with the nonvolatileorganic ethers above, and markedly reduce the potential for theformation of visible streaks. These secondary alcohols include variousmonohydric alcohols, dihydric alcohols, trihydric alcohols, andpolyhydric alcohols. Suitable secondary alcohols for use in the presentinvention are represented by the following Formula (II):

wherein A, D, E, G, L and M are independently —H, —CH₃, —OH or —CH₂OH; Jis a single bond or —O—; and Q is —H or a straight chain C₁-C₅ alkyloptionally substituted with —OH, with the proviso that:

(i) if Q is not an alkyl substituted with —OH, then at least one of A,D, E, G, L and M is —OH or —CH₂OH;

(ii) when only one of A and E is —OH and J is a single bond, D, G, L, Mand Q may not be —H simultaneously;

(iii) when A, D, E, G and L are —H simultaneously, J is a single bondand M is

 and

(iv) when J is single bond, none of E, G, L and M is —CH₃ or —CH₂OH andQ is —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃, then at least two of A, D, E, G, L and M are —OH; orat least one of A and D is —CH or —CH₂OH.

Preferably, at least one of A, D, E and G is —OH or —CH₂OH and Q is —Hor a straight chain C₁-C₅ alkyl optionally monosubstituted with —OH.

More preferably, one or two of A, D, E and G is —OH or —CH₂OH and Q is—H or —CH₂OH.

Most preferably, one or two of A, D, E and G is —OH or —CH₂OH, J is —O—,L and M are independently —H or —CH₃ and Q is —CH₂OH. The most preferredsecondary alcohol has been found to be propylene glycol.

In the present invention, the secondary alcohol will be generallyemployed in the range of up to about 5.0%; preferably from about 0.1% toabout 3.5%; and most preferably, from about 0.2% to about 2.5% by weightof the composition.

Compositions of the present invention typically have a pH of about 4 orabove, more preferably from about 7 to about 13 and ideally from about9.5 to about 12.5. The pH may be adjusted by conventional pH adjustingagents such as citric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, potassiumhydroxide, ammonia and mixtures thereof.

The compositions utilized in the present invention are typicallywater-based for reasons of household safety and commercial acceptance.Soft, distilled or deionized water are preferred as the source of waterfor dilution of the individual components as well as for the water addedas the balance of the composition for such use as an aqueous showerrinsing solution.

Generally, the amount of water utilized is dependent on the particularapplication of the composition. For household disinfecting compositions,water is typically present in an amount from about 1.0% to about 95%;preferably 50% to about 95%; and most preferably from about 85% to about95% by weight of the composition.

Builder salts and chelating agents of the type conventionally used inliquid detergent compositions for cleaning hard surfaces may also beincluded in the compositions of the present invention in small amounts,generally less than about 5%, provided that they do not promotestreaking on surfaces. Such builder salts include sodiumsesquicarbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium gluconate, sodium citrate,sodium borate, potassium carbonate, tetrapotassium pyrophosphate, sodiummetasilicate and the like, and such polymeric materials as polyacrylicacid. The chelating agents may include water soluble chelating agentssuch as alkali metal or substituted ammonium amino polycarboxylates suchas sodium or potassium salts of ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid(“EDTA”) such as tetrasodium EDTA.

The compositions according to the present invention may contain one ormore surfactants to adjust the surface tension of the composition and toaid in cleaning. These surfactants may include anionic surfactants suchas sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, decyl(sulfophenoxy)benzenesulfonicacid disodium salt sold by Dow Corp. as Dowfax® C10L, and sodium laurylsulfate, or amphoteric surfactants such as caprylic glycinate sold byWitco Corp. as Rewoteric® AMV. The anionic surfactant may also be afluoro anionic surfactant such as 3M Fluorad® FC-129. Other suitablesurfactants include betaine surfactants such as coco amido propyldimethyl sultaine sold by Lonza Corp. as Lonzaine® CS, coconut basedalkanolamide surfactants sold by Mona Chemicals as Monamid® 150-ADD ornonionic surfactants including the ethoxylated alcohols such as Neodol®23-3 and Neodol® 23-5(Shell Chemicals), alkyl phenol ethoxylates, andIgepal CO-630 (Rhone-Poulenc); low foaming surfactants such as lauramineoxide sold by Lonza Corp. as Barlox® LF and cleaning surfactants such asethoxylated vegetable oil sold by GAF Corp. as Emulphor® EL-719.

It is believed that the use of cationic amphoteric surfactants mayresult in cleaners which have a tendency for streaking or smearingproblems. Accordingly, amphoteric surfactants used in the presentinvention are preferably employed under alkaline conditions to renderthe anionic portion of the amphoteric compound active.

Ideally, the amphoteric surfactant exhibits high detergency and low foamcharacteristics. Suitable examples of such amphoteric compounds includea capryloamphodipropionate such as Amphoterge® KJ-2 (Lonza Corp.) whichhas a lipophilic end with a chain length including the amide carbon ofC₆ (4%); C₈ (57%); C₁₀ (38%) and C₁₂ (1%).

The amphoteric surfactants may desirably be utilized in their salt-freeforms to maximize their compatibility in the cleaning systems,particularly if the cleaner contains detergents.

In the present invention, the surfactant(s) will be employed in therange from 0 to about 5.0%; preferably in the range of from about 0.01%to about 3.0%; and most preferably in the range of from about 0.01% toabout 2.0% by weight of the composition.

The formulator may also choose to include one or more cleaning solventsor cleaning supplements such as monoethanolamine. These cleaningsolvents will typically be utilized in amounts from 0 to about 2.0%,preferably from about 0.01% to about 1.0% and most preferably, fromabout 0.125% to about 0.8% by weight of the composition.

Thickening agents may also be utilized where there is a need to increasethe time the consumer can wipe the composition before it runs down avertical surface. Suitable thickening agents include polyacrylic acidpolymers and copolymers such as Carbopol® ETD 2623 (B. F. Goodrich Co.)or Accusol 821 (Rohm and Haas).

For better consumer acceptance, the glass cleaning composition willtypically contain colorant or dye, such as Direct Blue 86, or polymericcolorants such as Liquitint® Blue HP and a fragrance component. If a dyeor a fragrance is contained in the composition, it may be preferablealso to include an anti-oxidant, such as potassium iodide, to protectthese materials and provide sufficient stability for a long shelf life.If the fragrance oil utilized which is not already preblended with asolubilizer, a fragrance solubilizer, such as Igepal-CO 630 commerciallyavailable from Rhone-Poulenc, or an alkoxylated linear alcohol such asPoly-Tergent SL-62 from Olin Chemical, is preferably utilized in a 50:50blend with the fragrance. Of course, it is certainly possible forcommercial or other reasons to provide a clear or fragrance-freecomposition by omitting these materials.

MODES OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The following Examples are provided to show various aspects of thepresent invention without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention. Unless otherwise indicated, all parts and percentages used inthe following Examples are by weight.

Generally, the compositions can be prepared by blending the ingredientsin any order. It is preferred that if the fragrance does not contain asolubilizer, a 50:50 preblend of these components is added to thecomposition. It is also desirable to prepare the compositions of thepresent invention by first admixing the surfactant component (ifutilized), water and at least a portion of the alcohols beforeincorporating the glycol ether(s). Preferably the components are admixedwith stirring to hasten dissolution. Mixing is done at ambienttemperature.

The following ingredients were used in the compositions described in theExamples:

Ammonium Hydroxide (28%)—ammonium hydroxide solution at 28% ammoniaconcentration.

Caustic Soda (50%)—aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide at 50% activeconcentration.

Sodium Docecyl Benzene Sulfonate (36%)—aqueous solution of sodiumdocecyl benzene sulfonate at 36% active concentration.

EXAMPLE 1

An aqueous antibacterial composition according to the present inventionwas prepared according to the following formula:

Sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate 0.2000 Isopropanol, anhydrous 3.5000Ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether 0.9000 Ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether1.0000 Ammonium hydroxide 0.3000 Propylene glycol 0.2500 Fluorad ®FC-129 fluoro surfactant 0.0200 Fragrance with solubilizer (50:50 blend)0.0500 Caustic soda 0.0600 Soft Water balance

This formula has a pH in the range of about 11.5 to about 12.2. Whentested for use as an antibacterial composition, all testedslides/carriers of staphylococcus aureus showed no indication ofbacterial growth after treatment. This composition was also tested usingdeionized water rather than soft water, and found to be equallyeffective. When reformulated to eliminate the ammonium hydroxide, noloss of effectiveness was noted.

EXAMPLE 2

An aqueous shower rinsing composition according to the present inventionwas prepared according to the following formula:

Sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate 0.2000 Isopropanol, anhydrous 3.5000Ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether 0.9000 Ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether1.0000 Igepal ® CO-630, fragrance solubilizer 0.0250 Propylene glycol0.2500 Fluorad ® FC-129 fluoro surfactant 0.0200 Fragrance 0.0250Caustic soda, 50% active 0.0600 Deionized Water balance This formula hasa pH in the range of about 11.5 to about 12.2.

Comparative Example 2A

A commercially available cleaning product sold under the tradename CleanShower was analyzed and is believed to have the following composition:

Ethoxylated Fatty ester (surfactant) 0.7000 EthylenediaminetetraceticAcid salts 1.2000 Isopropyl alcohol 2.4000 Fragrance Present AmmoniaPresent Water balance The pH of this product was measured as 4.9.

Comparative Example 2B

A commercially available cleaning product sold under the tradename TilexFresh Shower was analyzed and is believed to have the followingcomposition:

Ethoxylated Fatty ester (surfactant) 1.80 Ethylenediaminetetracetic Acidsalts 1.10 Isopropyl alcohol 2.20 Fragrance Present Ammonia PresentWater balance The pH of this product was measured as 11.4.

The aqueous shower rinsing compositions of Examples 2, 2A and 2B areapplied onto shower surfaces after showering to prevent the build-up ofdeposits such as soap scum, minerals, germs, bacteria, mold and mildew.These examples were also tested for antibacterial effect, as inExample 1. Of these Examples, Example 2 passed this test, while Examples2A and 2B failed in terms of antibacterial efficacy.

In addition to the above comparative Examples, additional tests wereconducted to evaluate the effectiveness of several shower rinsingcompositions for ability to reduce soap scum residue. A standard soapscum solution was prepared by weighing a specified amount of RacineWisconsin tap water (approximately 125 ppm calcium carbonate) into alarge beaker. The water was heated to 160° F., and specified amounts ofbath soap, shampoo plus conditioner, shave gel, synthetic sebum, BandyBlack clay were added. The solution was mixed well for ten minutes, thencooled to 120° F. before application to tile test surfaces. Four tile bythree tile black ceramic tile boards were used as test surfaces.Glossmeter readings were taken on clean tiles before treatment, using aconventional gloss meter. To simulate a shower, four sprays of roomtemperature tap water were sprayed on the tile surface. After waitingone minute, four sprays of soap scum solution were applied evenly to thetile test surface. After one minute, four strokes of comparative exampleformulation were evenly applied and allowed to air dry. After the tilesurfaces had dried, this was considered to be one application. Forpurposes of the test, a total of seven applications were made. Glossmeter readings were taken of the tiles after seven application, and thechange in gloss (gloss of clean tiles minus the gloss of the test tilesafter seven applications) was calculated. The compositions tested are asfollows.

TABLE 1 Raw Material Example 1 Example 2C Example 2D Example 2E Example2F Example 2G Deionized Water 92.23 93.87 93.86 92.34 94.13Monoethanolamine 0.20 Acusol 445N 0.02 Acusol 820 0.03 Soft Water 93.720.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 SDBS 0.20 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.20 FluoradFC-129 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.02 Hexyl Cellosolve 0.90 1.20 1.201.20 1.20 0.90 Butyl Cellosolve 1.00 3.00 2.00 2.00 3.00 1.00 PropyleneGlycol 0.25 1.00 0.50 0.50 1.00 0.25 Ammonium Hydroxide 0.30 0.00 0.000.00 0.00 0.00 Isopropanol 3.50 1.90 1.90 1.90 1.90 3.50 Caustic Soda,50% 0.06 0.00 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.00 Firmenich Fragrance 0.05 0.05 0.050.05 Measure pH 11.7 NA NA NA NA 3.96 Fragrance to be added 0.05 OMITOMIT OMIT OMIT OMIT 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

The results of the residue testing, using the gloss readings as taughtabove, are as follows;

Example: Change in Gloss: Example 2C 1.50 Example 2G 2.80 Example 2F3.00 Example 2E 4.34 Example 2D 4.48 Example 2 8.66 No Treatment 31.48Example 2A 31.78 Example 2B 33.83

As can be seen, as compared to tile surfaces which received “Notreatment”, the formulae of this invention (Examples 2, and 2C-2G)showed significantly lower values for the change in gloss, indicatingthat less residue was left behind. On the other hand, the competitiveexamples (Examples 2A and 2B) showed no difference in change of glossfrom the untreated tile samples.

Preferably, the consumer should begin with a clean shower surface beforebeginning to use the shower rinsing compositions of the presentinvention, as the rinsing composition is not a shower cleaner astraditionally utilized, but is a daily maintenance system for keepingshowers clean and sanitary with a minimum of consumer effort. However,if the consumer begins treating soiled shower surfaces with the rinsingcomposition, the results will not likely be apparent for about 2 to 4weeks, assuming that the product is used daily as instructed.

It is believed that the rinsing composition is best sprayed onto theshower surfaces with a conventional trigger sprayer or pressurizeddispenser, or through shower head metering, preferably before anyundesirable deposits dry and set. In subsequent showers, the water andmist from showering enhances the removal of deposits. Thus, the repeatedcycles of spray application of shower rinsing composition, drying ofshower surfaces, and subsequent showering serve to convey deposits viagravity (with the rinsing composition as the carrier) down to the showerdrain.

Water rinsing other than the showering itself can be done, but isunnecessary. No wiping, scrubbing, or other mechanical action isnecessary, in contrast to conventional cleaning agents which are used toremove deposits only after such deposits have dried. However, wiping mayenhance the performance of the rinsing composition.

Furthermore, in contrast to simply rinsing the shower surfaces withplain tap water which typically leaves deposits, the rinsing compositionof the present invention air-dries spot free with reduced visiblestreaking. The rinsing composition is also effective in maintainingbathtub surfaces and metallic bathroom fixtures substantially free ofdeposits.

EXAMPLE 3

A disinfecting composition according to the present invention wasprepared according to the following formula:

Sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate 0.2000 Isopropanol, anhydrous 3.5000Ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether 0.9000 Ethylene glycol n-butyl ether1.0000 Ammonium Hydroxide 0.3000 Propylene glycol 0.2500 Fluorad ®FC-129 fluoro surfactant 0.0200 Caustic soda, 50% active 0.0600 SoftWater balance

Bacteria Testing

Example 3 was tested by the AOAC Germicidal Spray Test and determined tobe efficacious against the following test systems at a 10 minute contact(exposure) time:

Staphylococcus aureus/ATCC 6538

Salmonella choleraesuis/ATCC 10708

Pseudomonas aeruginosa/ATCC 15442

Escherichia coli/ATCC 43890

Enterococcus (Streptococcus) faecalis/ATCC 19433

Listeria monocytogenes/ATCC 15313

Pastuerella multocida/ATCC 43137

Shigella dysenteriae/ATCC 29026

Shigella flexneri/ATCC 25875

Shigella sonnei/ATCC 25931

Yersinia enterocolitica/ATCC 9610

Enteroccoccus (Streptococcus) faecalis/ATCC 51299

Campylobacter fetus/ATCC 27374

Virus (Disinfecting) Testing

Example 3 is efficacious against the following viruses at a 10 minutecontact (exposure) time when tested by the ASTM E1053-91 test method:

Herpes simplex virus type 1

Herpes simplex virus type 2

Influenza virus type A2

Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV)

Mold Test

The composition of Example 3 was tested against Aspergillus Niger ATCC6275 by the EPA Hard Surface Mildew-Fungistatic Test and found tocontrol or inhibit the growth of mold and mildew on hard surfaces.

Sanitizer Test

The composition of Example 3 was also tested by the “Sanitizer forInanimate, Non-Food Contact Surfaces” test method prepared by theRegistration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs, EPA, 1976. (DIS/TSSGuideline 10 dated Jan 7, 1982.) The composition of Example 3 was foundto be efficacious as a non-food contact sanitizer at a one minutecontact (exposure) time.

EXAMPLE 4

A series of 57 additional compositions in accordance with the presentinvention were prepared and tested for antibacterial effect, inaccordance with the AOAC Germicidal Spray Test, at a 10 minute contacttime. Unless indicated otherwise, the samples contained 0.9% Hexyl and1.0% Butyl. The results of these tests are set forth in the Tables whichfollow. Abbreviations used in these tables are as follows:

butyl or but . . . ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether

hexyl or hex . . . ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether

pg . . . propylene glycol

IPA . . . isopropyl alcohol

PnB . . . propylene glycol n-butyl ether

PtB . . . propylene glycol t-butyl ether

The AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists) Germicidal SprayTest, 15th Edition 1990, section 961.02, was used to screen variousformulations using 10 carriers per composition. The formulations weretested at a ten minute contact time against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC6538. If 0, 1, 2, or 3 failures per ten carriers were obtained, thecompositions were considered to be effective. Four or five failures perten carriers indicated borderline efficacy when tested. Six to tenfailures indicated a product was not effective.

Samples in which Hexyl was present in concentrations above 0.6% wereeffective, in the presence of Butyl. While the presence of Butylappeared to increase the efficacy of other ethers to which it was added,inconsistent results were obtained when PnB and PtB were utilized. Theseglycols exhibited antibacterial properties only in the presence ofHexyl, up to concentrations of 5% of PnB. While it is not fullyunderstood at this time, it has been found that when Hexyl is employedas the glycol ether component, it is necessary to have at least 0.01%Butyl present, and further, efficacy of the Hexyl does not becomepronounced until the concentration of Hexyl exceeds 0.6% regardless ofthe concentration of Butyl with it. Conversely, the effectiveness ofButyl appears to be as an adjunct to another glycol ether, unless theconcentration of Butyl exceeds 5%.

TABLE 2 Hexyl/Butyl Effects: A no 0.10% 0.50% 0.60% 0.70% 0.80% hexylhexyl hexyl hexyl hexyl hexyl Observations/Results: 126-2 126-9 126-14126-52 126-53 126-54 pH 11.59 11.59 11.54 11.42 11.39 11.38 color nonenone none none none none appearance clear clear clear clear clear clearMicro results (# not passing) 10 10 19 5 3 0 # of plates/slides testedon 10 10 20 10 10 10 Micro retest(# not passing) 10 # of plates/slidestested on 10 B no 0.01% 0.05% 0.10% 0.50% 3.0% 5.0% butyl butyl butylbutyl butyl butyl butyl Observations/Results: 126-1 126-47 126-48 126-8126-49 126-26 126-28 pH 11.60 11.39 11.47 11.58 11.38 11.54 11.52 colornone none none none none none none appearance clear clear clear clearclear clear clear Micro results (# not passing) 9 0 0 5 0 1 1 # ofplates/slides tested on 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Micro retest (# notpassing) 15 18 # of plates/slides tested on 30 30 C no 0% hex .2% hex.4% hex .6% hex .8% hex 1% hex hex/but 5% but 1.7% but 1.5% but 1.3% but1.1% but .9% but Observations/Results: 126-41 126-51 126-42 126-43126-44 126-45 126-46 pH 11.44 11.43 11.43 11.41 11.46 11.40 11.38 colornone none none none none none none appearance clear clear clear clearclear clear clear Micro results (# not passing) 10 10 10 9 4 1 1 # ofplates/slides tested on 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Micro retest (# notpassing) # of plates/slides tested on

From the above, it may be seen that samples in which Hexyl was presentin concentrations above 0.6% were effective, in the presence of at least0.01% Butyl. While not fully understood, it appears that there is asynergism between the Hexyl and Butyl, since neither is effectivewithout the other. Further, it is noted that when Hexyl and Butyl areused together, efficacy is not achieved until the Hexyl concentration is0.6 or above.

TABLE 3 Propylene Glycol Effects: no 0.10% 1.0% 3.0% 5.0% pg pg pg pg pgObservations/Results: 126-3 126-12 126-15 126-27 126-31 pH 11.59 11.5911.57 11.57 11.55 color none none none none none appearance clear clearclear clear clear Micro results (# not 1 3 3 1 2 passing) # ofplates/slides tested on 10 10 10 10 10 Micro retest (# not passing) 2 3# of plates/slides tested on 10 10

From TABLE 3, above, one may conclude that the presence of propyleneglycol is not critical to success of the present invention, but aspreviously indicated, its inclusion is beneficial for purposes ofreduction of residue and streaking.

From TABLE 4, which follows, P-series glycol ethers are effective below5%, when used in combination with Hexyl in a concentration above 0.6%.At concentrations of 5% or higher, the presence of Hexyl appears to beunnecessary in the case of propylene glycol n-butyl ether (PnB).

TABLE 4 P-Series Glycol Ether Effects: 2.0% 2.0% 0.10% 2.0% 5.0% 2.0%2.0% 0.10% 2.0% 0.05 PnB PnB PnB, no PnB, no PnB, no PTB PTB PTB, noPTB, no PTB, no no hexyl no butyl hex/but hex/but hex/but no hexyl nobutyl hex/but hex/but hex/but Observations/Results: 126-22 126-20 126-10126-24 126-29 126-23 126-21 126-11 126-25 126-30 pH 11.57 11.63 11.5811.62 11.66 11.62 11.72 11.65 11.57 11.59 color none white none nonenone none none none none none appearance clear milky clear clear clearclear clear clear clear clear Micro results (# not passing) 10 0 10 10 110 1 10 9 10 # of plates/slides tested on 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 10Micro retest (# not passing) 2 # of plates/slides tested on 10

TABLE 5 Primary Alcohol Effects: A no 1.0% 2.00% 5.0% 10.0% IPA IPA IPAIPA IPA Observations/Results: 126-4 126-16 126-55 126-32 126-36 pH 11.5011.53 11.38 11.55 11.69 color none none none none none appearance clearclear clear clear clear Micro results (# not passing) 5 5 1 2 0 # ofplates/slides tested on 10 10 10 10 10 Micro retest (# not passing) 23 #of plates/slides tested on 30 B 1.0% 5.0% 10.0% 1.0% 5.0% 10.0% 1.0%5.0% 10.0% propanol propanol propanol butanol butanol butanol ethanolethanol ethanol no IPA no IPA no IPA no IPA no IPA no IPA no IPA no IPAno IPA Observations/Results: 126-17 126-33 126-37 126-18 126-34 126-38126-19 126-35 126-39 pH 11.37 11.39 11.42 11.52 11.52 11.54 11.52 11.5211.62 color none none none none white white none none none appearanceclear clear clear clear milky milky clear clear clear Micro results (#not passing) 4 0 0 2 0 0 5 3 1 # of plates/slides tested on 10 10 10 1010 9 10 10 10 Micro retest (# not passing) # of plates/slides tested on

The presence of an aliphatic alcohol has been found to be beneficial,with the most benefit being obtained at concentrations above about 2% ofisopropyl alcohol and above 5% for each of propanol, butanol, andethanol.

TABLE 6 Miscellaneous Effects: no NH3 no NH3 no NH3 no 0.01% no 0.20%1.03 g 1.20 g 1.06 g Fluorad Fluorad NaOH NaOH Citric Citric CitricObservations/Results: 126-5 126-7 126-6 126-13 126-40A 126-40B 126-40CpH 11.56 11.59 10.47 12.19 8.98 8.05 7.04 color none none none none nonenone none appearance clear clear clear clear clear clear clear Microresults (# not passing) 3 2 1 1 1 3 0 # of plates/slides tested on 10 1010 10 10 10 10 Micro retest (# not passing) 0 # of plates/slides testedon 10 Observations/Results: Example 2C Example 2D Example 2E Example 2FExample 2G pH NA NA NA NA 3.96 color none none none none none appearanceclear clear clear clear clear Micro results (# not passing) 0 1 1 0 1 #of plates/slides tested on 10 10 10 10 10

Observations/Results: Example 2C Example 2D Example 2E Example 2FExample 2G pH NA NA NA NA 3.96 color none none none none none appearanceclear clear clear clear clear Micro results (# not passing) 0 1 1 0 1 #of plates/slides tested on 10 10 10 10 10

The compositions of the present invention are equally effective forantibacterial activity both with and without the fluorosurfactantutilized. Efficacy is demonstrated at pH varying from about 4 to about13.

Further to the above testing for antibacterial effect, the compositionof Example 3 was compared with a commercially available competitiveglass and surface cleaner and a commercially available competitive allpurpose disinfectant. The comparison of streaking, or residue left onsurface was conducted by applying a measured amount of each of thecompositions to a black glass surface, removing the composition bywiping with a cheesecloth wiper, allowing the glass to dry for 15minutes, and then evaluating both visually and by reflectometer. It wasfound that by both measures, the composition of Example 3 wassignificantly superior in terms of streaking and deposit of residue.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The compositions of the present invention are simple to produce and use.The compositions can be applied to surfaces to be disinfected in avariety of ways such as by sponging, spraying, mopping, wiping, foaming,dipping and in various other ways that are commonly used forconventional disinfecting and cleaning agents. The compositions may bealso be dispensed from conventional pump, trigger or aerosol dispensers.The compositions may also be dispensed from sponges or towelettes whichare pre-moistened with the compositions.

Thus the compositions of the present invention will find use asmultipurpose disinfectants for many surfaces needing disinfection suchas countertops, work areas, rest rooms, mirrors, shower doors and thelike. The compositions can also be utilized to inhibit mold and mildewgrowth. Additionally, the compositions provide good detergency andstreak-resistance on glass and polished surfaces.

Although the present invention has been illustrated with reference tocertain preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that the presentinvention is not limited to the specifics set forth therein. Thoseskilled in the art will readily appreciate numerous variations andmodifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention, andall such variations and modifications are intended to be covered by thepresent invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for cleaning and sanitizing a non-poroushard surface in a household, commercial or institutional setting, saidmethod comprising contacting said surface with a composition comprisingfrom 1.0 to 5.0 percent by weight of an aliphatic alcohol, and from 0.9to 8.0 percent by weight of a glycol ether, the composition beingessentially free of conventional antibacterial agents including chlorinebleaches quaternary ammonium compounds and phenolic compounds.
 2. Amethod as set forth in claim 1, wherein said composition furthercomprises a secondary alcohol selected from the group consisting ofmonohydric alcohols, dihydric alcohols, trihydric alcohols, andpolyhydric alcohols.
 3. A method as set forth in claim 2, wherein saidsecondary alcohol comprises propylene glycol.
 4. A method for cleaningand sanitizing a surface, said method comprising contacting said surfacewith a composition comprising from 1.0 to 10.0 percent by weight of analiphatic alcohol, and an organic ether, the composition beingessentially free of chlorine bleaches, quaternary ammonium compounds andphenolic compounds, wherein said organic ether is selected from thegroup consisting of ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether, ethylene glycolmono-butyl ether, and mixtures thereof.
 5. A method as set forth inclaim 4, wherein said aliphatic alcohol comprises isopropanol.
 6. Amethod as set forth in claim 5, wherein said composition furthercomprises a surfactant.
 7. A method for sanitizing a surface, saidmethod comprising contacting said surface with a composition comprisingfrom 1.0 to 10.0 percent by weight of an aliphatic alcohol, and from0.01 to 10.0 percent by weight of a glycol ether, the composition beingessentially free of chlorine bleaches, quaternary ammonium compounds andphenolic compounds.
 8. A method as set forth in claim 7, wherein saidcomposition further comprises from 0.1 to 5.0 percent by weight of asecondary alcohol selected from the group consisting of monohydricalcohols, dihydric alcohols, trihydric alcohols, and polyhydricalcohols.
 9. A method as set forth in claim 7, wherein said aliphaticalcohol is selected from the group consisting of isopropanol, propanol,butanol, and ethanol.
 10. A method as set forth in claim 9, wherein saidglycol ether is selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycoln-hexyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether, and mixtures thereof.11. A method as set forth in claim 9, wherein said glycol ether is amixture of ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether and ethylene glycol mono-butylether, wherein said n-hexyl ether comprises from 0.6 to 1.0 percent byweight of said composition, and said mono-butyl ether comprises from 0.1to 5.0 percent by weight of said composition.
 12. A method as set forthin claim 11, wherein said n-hexyl ether comprises from 0.9 to 1.0percent by weight of said composition.
 13. A method as set forth inclaim 12 wherein said aliphatic alcohol comprises isopropanol at aconcentration of from 2 to 10 percent by weight of the composition. 14.A method as set forth in claim 12, wherein said aliphatic alcohol isselected from the group consisting of propanol, butanol, and ethanol,and said aliphatic, alcohol is present in a concentration of from 5 to10 percent by weight of the composition.
 15. A method according to claim7 or claim 8, wherein said composition has a pH in the range of fromabout 7 to about
 13. 16. A method for cleaning and sanitizing a showersurface, said method comprising contacting said shower surface with acomposition consisting essentially of water, a surfactant, from 1.0 to10 percent by weight of an aliphatic alcohol selected from the groupconsisting of isopropanol, propanol, butanol, and ethanol, from 0.9 to1.0 percent by weight of ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether, from 1.0 to 5.0percent by weight of ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether, and from 0.1 to3.5 percent by weight of propylene glycol, said composition having a pHin the range of from about 7 to about
 13. 17. A method as set forth inclaim 16, wherein said composition further comprises a cleaning solvent,a thickener, fragrance, and a colorant, and said aliphatic alcohol isisopropanol.
 18. A method for providing disinfection and mold and mildewinhibition to a shower surface, said method comprising contacting saidshower surface with a composition consisting essentially of water, asurfactant, from 2.0 to 5.0 percent by weight of isopropanol, from 0.9to 1.0 percent by weight of ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether, from 1.0 to5.0 percent by weight of ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether, from 0.1 to3.5 percent by weight of propylene glycol, a cleaning solvent, athickener, fragrance, and a colorant, with said composition being at apH in the range of from about 7 to about 13.